Entering Local Politics

My family background is reasonably working class, neither of my parent went to secondary school. I hold a M.A. (Hons) in Political Science. I am a mother of two young children, now 8 years old and 20 months old.

I was elected to the city Council at age 19 because I believed that politics was the means by which change was best achieved. Originally I was very interested in national politics but having gotten into local politics I got sort of "hooked" on it. I have been Mayor of Christchurch for 9 years, which entails the position of Chair of Christchurch City Council and a general leadership role in Christchurch community.

A Woman's Perspective

I think that being a woman when running for office, was probably an overall advantage. Although when I first stood for Mayor I also became a mother for the first time and there was a lot of debate about managing both in the newspapers. The support at that stage from women, especially older women, was just wonderful. They were very encouraging indeed. Once in office I actually figured that if anyone had problems with the fact that I was female, then that was their problem, and it was for them to deal with. I don't feel as though I am facing any discrimination at the moment.

As for improving the status of women in general in Christchurch, I think that just being aware of the needs of women is helpful as their needs are so widespread. For example, availability and diversity of childcare; a child- friendly city with adequate playgrounds; housing especially for families; access to council owned facilities; free family entertainment; neighbourhood improvements; employment opportunities; and after-school care, are all relevant issues to many women.

Breaking The Barriers

I believe the main factors which might prevent or restrict women from entering the political arena are as follows:-the desire to achieve more balance in their lives and so not be prepared to put so much emphasis on the work/career component; the practical difficulties of balancing family commitments with such a demanding job which requires many sacrifices; the total lack of privacy and anonymity; the feeling that a glass ceiling exists and not seeing this an appropriate role.

A number of policies which have been implemented during my time in office are related in an effort to increase female participation in the city but that was not the primary motivation. We have instigated a Children's Strategy to try and make the city a very child friendly environment.

I think women's concerns and priorities in terms of urban issues differ from those of men, in the sense that generally women are more concerned about the people issues, rather than straight infrastructure. However, this is a huge generalization and I really hate making such gross generalizations. What is important is that city governments need to reflect the communities they represent.

I believe that the issues of increasing the number of women with power in local government and the status of women are related, but we should not automatically assume that all women will be sympathetic to other women. Promoting female participation in politics and increasing the capacity of women in society in general is a responsibility for all of us, it should not just be put on to women.

There are seven other women councilors on the Christchurch City Council (out of 24 other councilors). There are two other women Mayors nearby in adjacent smaller local authorities and a significant number of women mayors now throughout New Zealand.

In New Zealand I think perceptions of women in politics have become more positive over the past ten years. Certainly as far as Mayors in New Zealand go, I think women now have an electoral advantage. They have generally performed very well in New Zealand with very high energy levels and high levels of social awareness.

On a personal level I would say my best accomplishment in office so far has been, staying reasonably sane and keeping my sense of humour. As for the future I am intending to stand down from this job in October 1998. To enjoy life, to have fun, and to make a difference in some other field.